The discussion revolves around a problem involving linear expansion, specifically the measurement of distance between two lamp posts using a metal tape at varying temperatures. The original poster presents a scenario where the tape's reading is affected by temperature changes, leading to questions about the actual distance between the posts.
Some participants have provided calculations and derived formulas, while others have confirmed the reasoning behind the original poster's approach. There is an ongoing exploration of the implications of temperature on the measurements, but no explicit consensus has been reached regarding the final answer.
The problem is framed within the constraints of a hypothetical scenario, including specific temperature values and a defined coefficient of linear expansion. Participants are navigating the assumptions related to the tape's accuracy at different temperatures.
jsalapide said:i derived the formula alpha = change in L / (original length x change in temperature)
i came up with a formula original length = final length / (alpha x change in temperature + 1)
alpha is the coefficient of linear expansion..
I set the original length as the original length of the tape and not the actual distance between the 2 posts..
I got 29.98m
i subtracted it to 30m and i got 0.018m..
i added it to 30m to get the actual distance of the 2 posts..
My answer is 30.018m..
Is that right?